Parents are about to see something that feels completely backward. Schools like the University of Georgia, Tulane University, and Texas Christian University are removing supplemental essays and short-answer questions from their applications. On the surface, this sounds like good news for stressed teenagers. Less writing. Less pressure. Faster applications. But these changes may actually make admissions even more competitive at these schools. "Easier" applications mean more students apply, which creates larger applicant pools filled with academically qualified teenagers who often look very similar on paper. In that environment, transcripts and SAT or ACT scores may matter more than ever because they remain two of the clearest signals colleges use to measure academic preparation and rigor. Students should focus less on collecting random resume lines and more on building real depth in the classes, activities, and interests that connect to who they are and what they may want to study.

For many LGBTQ teenagers, the college journey is about more than academics. It’s about finding a place where they can live authentically, safely, and fully—where their identity is affirmed, their rights are protected, and their community is celebrated. Choosing the right college can shape not only their academic path but also their mental health, sense of belonging, and personal development. This guide is designed to help LGBTQ teenagers and their families identify colleges where students can find safety, support, and community. It spotlights 20 campuses that have consistently shown up for queer and trans students—in policy, programming, and culture.

A summer job can be one of the most valuable experiences a teenager has in high school. It offers a real-world setting to practice responsibility, solve problems, and work with people of all ages. Teenagers who show up with curiosity and purpose often build skills that shape their confidence, character, and future plans. The right mindset can turn even a simple job into a powerful story of growth.

The University of Miami asks this year's applicants: “Reflect on a community that has influenced you… What significance did that community hold for you, and in what ways did you contribute to it? How will you bring those experiences, values, and insights to enrich our campus community at the University of Miami?”  AI might answer this prompt with polished generalities about teamwork, culture, or perspective. But real admissions readers are looking for depth, clarity, and humanity.

Purdue asks this year's applicants: “How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom?” This is one of those prompts where it’s easy to play it safe. List a few programs, name a major, mention a club or two, and call it done. But that’s exactly the kind of answer a chatbot could write in under a minute. Purdue is looking for students who have done the research, connected the dots, and can clearly picture themselves in the community.  The key to standing out? Go beyond the brochure.